Fire Code Compliance Officer Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In the era of ever-tightening safety regulations, the role of a Fire Code Compliance Officer has never been more critical.

As buildings grow taller and structures more complex, the need for skilled professionals who can navigate, enforce, and uphold our fire safety standards increases.

But let’s delve deeper: What is really expected from a Fire Code Compliance Officer?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to understand the core responsibilities of this role,
• A hiring manager looking to draft the ideal candidate profile,
• Or simply curious about the intricacies of fire code compliance,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we present a customizable Fire Code Compliance Officer job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right in.

Fire Code Compliance Officer Duties and Responsibilities

Fire Code Compliance Officers are responsible for enforcing fire safety regulations within their jurisdiction.

They ensure that buildings and properties comply with fire codes to prevent potential fire hazards.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Conducting regular inspections of buildings and properties to ensure compliance with fire safety regulations
• Identifying potential fire hazards and issuing violation notices to property owners or managers
• Reviewing building plans and blueprints to ensure they meet fire safety codes
• Working closely with fire departments to investigate incidents and identify fire causes
• Conducting fire safety education programs and workshops for the public
• Keeping accurate records of inspections, violations, and corrective actions
• Providing recommendations for improvements in fire safety measures
• Ensuring that fire safety equipment, such as extinguishers and sprinkler systems, are in good working condition
• Assisting in the development and implementation of emergency evacuation plans
• Keeping up-to-date with changes in fire safety regulations and best practices

 

Fire Code Compliance Officer Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a diligent Fire Code Compliance Officer to ensure that our facilities comply with local, state, and federal fire codes.

The Fire Code Compliance Officer will inspect buildings, assess fire safety measures, enforce adherence to fire codes, and lead fire safety education initiatives.

The ideal candidate should have a strong understanding of fire safety codes, possess excellent analytical and communication skills, and be committed to safeguarding lives and property by promoting fire safety.

 

Responsibilities

• Perform regular inspections to identify potential fire hazards and verify compliance with fire safety codes.
• Enforce local, state, and federal fire codes and issue citations for non-compliance.
• Develop and implement fire safety policies and procedures.
• Provide fire safety education and training to staff and building occupants.
• Coordinate with local fire departments and other emergency services during inspections and emergencies.
• Review building plans for compliance with fire safety regulations.
• Prepare and maintain reports on inspection findings, fire incidents, and corrective actions taken.
• Investigate fire incidents and identify areas of improvement in fire safety measures.
• Recommend solutions to resolve fire safety concerns and ensure compliance with fire codes.

 

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Fire Code Compliance Officer or similar role.
• Knowledge of local, state, and federal fire codes and regulations.
• Excellent understanding of fire safety principles and practices.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to train and educate others on fire safety measures.
• Certification as a Fire Inspector or Fire Protection Engineer is a plus.
• High school diploma or equivalent; degree in fire science or related field is preferred.

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Professional development opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Fire Code Compliance Officer
• Work Environment: This position requires both office work and field inspections. Some travel may be required for inspections or meetings with regulatory authorities.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the Safety Director or Fire Marshal.
• Salary: Salary is based on candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $45,000 minimum to $75,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume and a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Fire Code Compliance Officer Do?

Fire Code Compliance Officers, often employed by local government bodies or fire departments, play a crucial role in ensuring that buildings, structures, and properties comply with local, state, and national fire codes and regulations.

They perform thorough inspections of existing buildings and newly constructed sites to ensure they meet the required fire safety standards.

This can include checking fire alarm systems, fire extinguishing equipment, emergency escape routes, and other fire safety measures.

Fire Code Compliance Officers also review and approve plans for new buildings or renovations, ensuring that they incorporate necessary fire safety features.

They might also advise architects and engineers on fire safety issues during the design process.

Their job also involves responding to complaints and reports about potential fire code violations.

If they identify issues, they issue citations and work with property owners and managers to address and correct these violations.

They often play a role in fire investigations as well, helping to determine if fire code violations contributed to fires.

In addition to these tasks, Fire Code Compliance Officers conduct public education and outreach programs, providing information about fire safety and prevention.

They stay updated on new fire safety technology and changes in fire codes and regulations.

They might also participate in emergency planning and preparedness activities.

 

Fire Code Compliance Officer Qualifications and Skills

A competent Fire Code Compliance Officer should have the skills and qualifications that adhere to the job role, which include:

• Thorough knowledge and understanding of fire safety codes and regulations to ensure buildings and structures are in compliance.
• Analytical skills to review blueprints, schematics, and building plans, identifying any potential fire hazards or violations of fire safety codes.
• Effective communication skills to clearly explain the fire code violations and necessary corrections to building owners, architects, and other stakeholders.
• Attention to detail in order to inspect and evaluate buildings for fire safety and adherence to codes, regulations, and standards.
• Problem-solving skills to provide solutions for identified fire code violations and non-compliant structures.
• Interpersonal skills to work with a variety of individuals from construction workers to government officials in ensuring fire safety.
• Physical stamina and ability to navigate through various building types and sites, often under adverse conditions.
• Ability to interpret and apply legal and regulatory documents in enforcing fire safety codes.

 

Fire Code Compliance Officer Experience Requirements

Fire Code Compliance Officers generally require a minimum of 3 to 5 years of experience in fire prevention, fire code enforcement, or a related field.

This experience can be gained through roles such as Fire Fighter, Fire Prevention Specialist, or Fire Safety Inspector.

Entry-level candidates may be considered if they have completed an internship or gained experience through part-time roles or volunteering in fire prevention or fire safety organizations.

Candidates with more than 5 years of experience often have a comprehensive understanding of fire code regulations and the ability to enforce them effectively.

They may have spent time working in various roles related to fire prevention and safety, giving them a well-rounded perspective on fire code compliance.

Those with more than 7 years of experience usually have an advanced understanding of fire codes, regulations, and laws.

They may have leadership experience and are often eligible for senior roles.

Many employers may also require a relevant certification such as a Certified Fire Protection Specialist (CFPS) or Certified Fire Inspector (CFI), which further proves the candidate’s skills and knowledge in the field.

In addition to this, continuous education and staying up-to-date with the latest fire safety regulations and technologies is imperative in this role.

 

Fire Code Compliance Officer Education and Training Requirements

Fire Code Compliance Officers typically require a high school diploma or equivalent.

However, many employers prefer candidates with an associate’s or bachelor’s degree in fire science, engineering, or a related field.

In addition to formal education, they need extensive knowledge about fire safety standards and local, state, and federal fire codes.

This knowledge can be obtained through on-the-job experience or specialized training programs.

Fire Code Compliance Officers are often required to complete a certification program, such as the Certified Fire Inspector I (CFI-I) or Certified Fire Inspector II (CFI-II) offered by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).

These programs provide in-depth instruction on fire code enforcement and inspection procedures.

In some states, Fire Code Compliance Officers may need to be licensed.

Licensing requirements may include a certain level of education, work experience, and passing a written examination.

Continuing education is essential for keeping up with changes in fire safety standards and codes.

Therefore, many Fire Code Compliance Officers also participate in ongoing training seminars and workshops.

Prior experience in firefighting or a related field can be advantageous, providing practical understanding of fire safety and prevention.

 

Fire Code Compliance Officer Salary Expectations

A Fire Code Compliance Officer earns an average salary of $62,000 (USD) per year.

The salary can significantly differ based on the level of experience, certifications, the complexity of the job role, and the location of the job.

Some cities or states may offer a higher wage due to the increased demand and cost of living.

 

Fire Code Compliance Officer Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Fire Code Compliance Officer need?

A Fire Code Compliance Officer needs keen observational skills to identify potential fire hazards.

They must have a strong understanding of fire codes and regulations to ensure full compliance.

Additionally, communication skills are important as they often need to explain compliance issues to property owners and provide advice on how to fix them.

Analytical and problem-solving skills are also essential for investigating and resolving fire code violations.

 

Do Fire Code Compliance Officers need a degree?

While a degree is not always required, most Fire Code Compliance Officers need to have at least a high school diploma or equivalent.

A degree in Fire Science, Fire Safety Engineering, or a related field can be beneficial.

Most importantly, they should have comprehensive knowledge of local, state, and federal fire codes, which can be acquired through training programs and certification courses.

 

What should you look for in a Fire Code Compliance Officer resume?

Experience in fire safety inspection or a related field is a strong indicator of a candidate’s ability to perform as a Fire Code Compliance Officer.

Look for certifications from recognized fire safety organizations, which demonstrate their understanding of fire codes and regulations.

Any extra training in fire prevention or fire safety engineering can also be an asset.

 

What qualities make a good Fire Code Compliance Officer?

A good Fire Code Compliance Officer is vigilant and meticulous, capable of identifying even minor fire hazards.

They should be excellent communicators to effectively explain compliance issues and solutions to property owners.

Integrity is also a key quality, as they must ensure that all inspections are carried out fairly and impartially.

Lastly, they should be committed to continuous learning to stay updated with the latest changes in fire safety regulations.

 

Is it difficult to hire Fire Code Compliance Officers?

Hiring a Fire Code Compliance Officer can be challenging due to the specific knowledge and skills required for the job.

Candidates need to have a strong understanding of fire codes and regulations, as well as relevant experience in fire safety inspection.

It may be necessary to offer ongoing training and competitive compensation to attract and retain qualified candidates.

 

Conclusion

And so, we’ve illuminated the crucial role of a Fire Code Compliance Officer.

Surprised?

Their work goes beyond enforcing regulations.

They’re shaping safer cities, one building code at a time.

With our comprehensive Fire Code Compliance Officer job description template and real-world examples, you’re well-equipped to make your next career move.

But why limit yourself?

Expand your knowledge with our job description generator. It’s your tool for creating meticulously detailed job listings or refining your resume to absolute precision.

Remember:

Every safety regulation is a step towards a safer community.

Let’s construct that future. Together.

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